Weigh Station Fire: 12 p.m. Update

The Weigh Station Fire burning near Meacham, Oregon has burned approximately 700 acres and is at 0% containment as of this morning.  An Interagency Type 3 Incident Command Team has taken control of the fire and is working to strengthen containment lines today.  Fire managers are currently assessing the evacuation areas to determine when residents will be allowed to return to the area. 

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has opened traffic going westbound.  Crews are completing hazard tree removal operations along the eastbound lanes.  ODOT hopes to have eastbound traffic moving sometime this afternoon when the area is deemed safe for the public.  Check www.tripcheck.com for up to date information regarding travel conditions in Oregon.

The fire is burning on lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry.  Working on the fire today are three Type 1 handcrews, three Type 2 handcrews, the Umatilla National Forest Veteran’s Crew, six Oregon Department of Corrections crews, two dozers, 13 engines, four water tenders, one air attack and two helicopters, along with miscellaneous overhead.  Approximately 282 personnel are battling the blaze. 

American Red Cross has opened a shelter for evacuees.  It is located at Sunrise Middle School in Pendleton.  The shelter coordinator can be reached at (541) 419-4159. 

The near-term weather report calls for continued warm temperatures and low relative humidities.  The public is reminded that ODF is currently in Regulated Use Closure in Northeast Oregon.  Fire managers recommend that recreationists and travelers check the fire regulations before heading out to enjoy the forest. 

http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/ is your spot for current fire information in the Blue Mountains. 

To report a fire, call Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch at (541)963-7171 or dial 9-1-1.